Sonoma County, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
485,040
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$104,674/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
207,699
0.7% year-over-year change

Sonoma County population

How many people live in Sonoma County

Sonoma County is home to 485,040 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Sonoma County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
485,040
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
238,643
Female
50.8%
246,397
Value Percent YoY change
Male 238,643 49.2% -0.1%
Female 246,397 50.8% -0.2%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Sonoma County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
21.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 74,692 15.4% -1.9%
15 to 24 55,687 11.5% -0.2%
25 to 44 124,063 25.6% 0.1%
45 to 64 126,209 26% -1.4%
Over 65 104,389 21.5% 2.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Sonoma County, 82.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 61.8% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 4.5% have Asian roots. Another 1.4% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 14.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.2%
Non-citizens
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 398,217 82.1% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 44,441 9.2% 0.2%
Non-citizens 42,382 8.7% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
61.8%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
4.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
15.6%
Other
14.8%
Value Percent
White 299,837 61.8%
Black or African American 7,630 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6,555 1.4%
Asian 21,865 4.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,616 0.3%
Two or more races 75,520 15.6%
Other 72,017 14.8%

Households in Sonoma County

A peek inside Sonoma County households

Sonoma County has 190,998 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63% are families, while the remaining 37% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
190,998
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
70,744
Family households
120,254
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 70,744 37% 0.8%
Family households 120,254 63% -0.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Sonoma County

The housing landscape of Sonoma County

Sonoma County's housing consists of 207,699 units, with 66.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
207,699
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 138,686 66.8%
1 unit, attached 16,663 8%
2 units 4,954 2.4%
3 or 4 units 9,150 4.4%
5 to 9 units 7,758 3.7%
10 to 19 units 5,510 2.6%
20 to 49 units 5,433 2.6%
50 or more units 9,338 4.5%
Mobile home 9,885 4.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 322 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
3,189
55.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sonoma County

In Sonoma County, the median construction year is 1979. About 8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 16,691 8% 1.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 8,331 4% -4.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 17,328 8.3% -1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 24,496 11.8% 0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 41,564 20% 1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 36,865 17.8% -0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 26,163 12.6% -4.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 20,917 10.1% 0.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 12,155 5.8% 10.6%
Built in 2020 or later 3,189 1.5% 55.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Sonoma County occupancy rates

Out of the 190,998 occupied housing units in Sonoma County, 62.6% are owner-occupied, while 37.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
190,998
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
71,400
Owner occupied
119,598
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 71,400 37.4% -0.8%
Owner occupied 119,598 62.6% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
8.0%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Sonoma County housing costs

Housing costs in Sonoma County come to a median of $2,242 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,158.

Median housing costs per month
$2,242/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Sonoma County
$2,158/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Sonoma County

Sonoma County education at a glance

About 25.8% of the population in Sonoma County went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 22.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 23,783 6.1% 5.7%
High school diploma 101,260 25.8% 0.8%
College diploma 92,090 23.4% -3.4%
Associate degree 34,823 8.9% -1.6%
Bachelor's degree 88,727 22.6% 1.9%
Graduate degree 51,960 13.2% 2.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Sonoma County

How much people earn in Sonoma County

The average annual household income in Sonoma County was $142,354 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $104,674, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sonoma County
$142,354/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sonoma County
$104,674/year
1.8% year-over-year change

Sonoma County income by age

In Sonoma County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $114,241. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $127,091 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $67,041, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $78,329 in earnings. Overall, 91.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $67,041 1.9%
25 - 44 $114,241 4.2%
45 - 64 $127,091 1.0%
Over 65 $78,329 0.9%
Above poverty level
432,404
Below poverty level
42,277
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 432,404 91.1% -0.4%
Below poverty level 42,277 8.9% 3.6%

Employment in Sonoma County

Workforce and job types in Sonoma County

The job market in Sonoma County is powered by 243,427 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.8% run their own businesses, 63% are employed by private companies, and 13.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
243,427
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
195,383
Blue collar
48,044
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 195,383 80.3% -1.2%
Blue collar 48,044 19.7% -0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
13.8%
Private companies
63%
Governmental workers
13.8%
Not for profit companies
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 33,617 13.8% -2.4%
Private companies 153,443 63% -1.6%
Governmental workers 33,688 13.8% 0.3%
Not for profit companies 22,679 9.3% 3.0%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
9.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sonoma County stands at 5.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Sonoma County

How people get around in Sonoma County

In Sonoma County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 78.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
-0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 186,723 78.7% -2.9%
Taxicab 238 0.1% -14.4%
Bus or trolleybus 1,756 0.7% 8.0%
Subway or elevated 172 0.1% N/A
Railroad 476 0.2% -8.8%
Ferryboat 81 0% 50.0%
Motorcycle 401 0.2% 5.5%
Bicycle 1,678 0.7% 2.9%
Walk 5,889 2.5% 3.5%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Sonoma County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
94515 6,946 2,615 $94,464 $157,629
94922 6 3 $0 $0
94923 1,483 693 $147,546 $175,056
94928 46,829 17,200 $99,280 $126,089
94931 9,487 4,072 $101,994 $128,205
94951 3,294 1,419 $106,332 $165,110
94952 33,785 13,985 $117,343 $156,832
94954 37,574 14,876 $113,527 $142,960
95401 36,861 13,840 $93,615 $119,921
95403 45,806 16,823 $98,191 $124,114

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FAQs about Sonoma County demographics 

What is the total population of Sonoma County?

Sonoma County has a total population of 485,040 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sonoma County?

The gender ratio in Sonoma County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (238,643 residents)
  • 50.8% females (246,397 residents)

What is the median age in Sonoma County?

The median age in Sonoma County is 42.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sonoma County?

The age distribution in Sonoma County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (74,692 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (55,687 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (124,063 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (126,209 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.5% (104,389 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sonoma County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sonoma County is as follows:
  • White: 61.8% (299,837 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (7,630 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (6,555 residents)
  • Asian: 4.5% (21,865 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (1,616 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.6% (75,520 residents)
  • Other: 14.8% (72,017 residents)

What percentage of the population in Sonoma County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.1% of the population in Sonoma County.

How many housing units are there in Sonoma County?

There are 207,699 housing units in Sonoma County, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Sonoma County and what is the average household size?

Sonoma County has a total of 190,998 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sonoma County?

Sonoma County has a median household income of $104,674, representing a +1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Sonoma County?

The employment rate is 94.3% in Sonoma County, with a workforce of 243,427 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.3% (195,383 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.7% (48,044 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.8% (33,617 residents)
  • Private companies: 63% (153,443 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.8% (33,688 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.3% (22,679 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025